Epicycle

[episaikl]

Definition

(noun.) a circle that rolls around (inside or outside) another circle; generates an epicycloid or hypocycloid.

Editor: Simon--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) A circle, whose center moves round in the circumference of a greater circle; or a small circle, whose center, being fixed in the deferent of a planet, is carried along with the deferent, and yet, by its own peculiar motion, carries the body of the planet fastened to it round its proper center.

(n.) A circle which rolls on the circumference of another circle, either externally or internally.

Typed by Leona

Definition

n. a circle having its centre on the circumference of a greater circle on which it moves.—adj. Epicy′clic.—n. Epicy′cloid a curve described by every point in the plane of a circle moving on the convex circumference of another circle.—adj. Epicycloi′dal.

Editor: Stanton